The Ministry of Unification expressed regret that some organizations recently distributed leaflets to North Korea and strongly requested a halt to these activities. The ministry, which had previously stated that its approach to leaflet distribution was based on the constitutional court's decision to guarantee freedom of expression, has shifted its stance amid the change in administration. Analysts suggest this move is part of a message to alleviate tensions in inter-Korean relations following President Lee Jae-myung's ascent to power.
On the 9th, Spokesperson Koo Byung-sam of the Ministry of Unification expressed regret during a regular briefing, saying, “Despite the ministry's request for restraint, the Family Assembly Abducted to North Korea distributed leaflets for the third time on April 27 and May 8.” He added, “This could heighten tensions on the Korean Peninsula and threaten the lives and safety of residents in border areas. Therefore, we strongly request the cessation of leaflet distribution.”
Spokesperson Koo stated, “We plan to closely communicate with relevant agencies and related organizations to support the adherence to legal regulations regarding leaflet distribution, such as the Disaster Safety Act and Aviation Safety Act. We will also actively cooperate in discussions on amendments to laws related to inter-Korean relations in the National Assembly.”
This is the first time the government has requested North Korea-related organizations to stop leaflet distribution since the constitutional court's decision in September 2023 that declared the anti-leaflet law unconstitutional. The Yoon Seok-yul administration did not impose restrictions on leaflet distribution, citing the constitutional court's ruling that the ban violated freedom of expression. Despite concerns about escalating tensions in border areas due to leaflet distribution, they did not request restraint due to the court's decision.
The Ministry of Unification's explicit request for leaflet distribution to cease is interpreted as a measure to restore trust between the two Koreas under the new government. North Korea has reacted by sending garbage balloons to the South in response to leaflet distribution.
President Lee Jae-myung, during the candidacy, stated the intention to restore the inter-Korean communication channel, which had been cut off for over two years, to prevent accidental clashes and manage situations between the Koreas. He also expressed plans to halt leaflet distribution and loudspeaker broadcasts directed at North Korea.
The Family Assembly Abducted to North Korea reportedly intends not to comply with the Ministry of Unification's request.